I personal predict that within the next 25 years, space travel will either become possible, or very near close, private parties (Sir Richard Branson, etc.,) are striving hard to make that vision a reality as soon as possible. Since the days of Sputnik, the race has begun again!http://www.waaytv.com/news/local/story/Huntsville-Space-Professionals-Look-to-Commercial/Fl_t2yNVa0y1XQjZC2X4gw.cspx
Within the next 25 years, with these private companies emerging and putting in their bids for space travel, NASA will have to become a governing agency much like the FAA & DOT. They will have to become the regulator of the industry and ensure that all participants in space travel are held to the highest standards.
I can envision private companies taking on the roles of current airlines, consulting firms, safety companies, etc. I think that space travel will mirror the aviation world as we know it. Especially since Airline mega-monster VIRGIN ATLANTIC, Inc. is one of the leading companies in the race to space. http://www.virgingalactic.com/news/
With the new ISS space station fully operational, life in space is becoming the new query in many people’s mind. “What if we could live in space like they do in the movies?” Before the purpose was to explore the other planets, and our solar system. Now it could possibly be viewed as the newest fad or luxury.
It is my belief, that it would be more of a cost than a benefit. We would have to devote trust of our lives to environmental systems, like life support on “Star Trek”. We all know that there is no oxygen in space, and it’s so cold, that exposure triggers almost instant death. And think of all the $$$ that would be required to make a new world in space, compared to what we already have spent on making the world what it is today?
Career wise, I think it’s almost a no-brainer that Aviation-based careers would become the new “gold”. And it would open further opportunities to scientist and pave the way for new inventions, and endeavors for years to come.
Interesting point about survival in space. Without a man made vehicle and life support it is not possible. That being said do we belong in outer space? Well we aren't supposed to fly yet we do... My thought about survival in space is more about how to be self contained. Food and water? You can't grow corn in space so the problem of how to supply the basic necessities must be considered.
ReplyDeleteNice job answering all the assignment questions. Still, you have not smoothly integrated the links. Vref - I agree that one of the big questions is self-survival.
ReplyDeleteIt's interesting how you said NASA will be a lot like the FAA and have to govern over space operations. This makes a lot o since and will make sure people working on space operations are held and kept to a standard.
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ReplyDeletethat is a good point...i didn't even think of setting regulations for NASA and space travel. I don't think we will get to the point of living in space, but you never know.
ReplyDeleteIt is my belief that we will eventually be able to live in space 'like they do in the movies', but not within our lifetimes most likely. The idea of a fully thriving economy on a space station is like a far away dream, but at least it's slowly becomming more of a reality.
ReplyDeleteI wonder if NASA and the FAA will integrate into one governing body? It seems the two industries are so closely related that it would make sense and also save the government some money in there never ending quest of needed budget cuts.
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